A press conference is the way to go if you’re ready to launch that product, invention, brand or any other media-worthy news in your business. It’s one of the greatest ways for your company to receive media exposure so you’ll want to execute this and represent yourself perfectly. Here’s a guide you’ll want to follow to plan your press conference successfully.

While normally it would be hard for you to have a say in what people say about you and your company, a press conference is the perfect opportunity for you to control your message to the audience- so you need to absolutely perfect it. Plan your speech so that you have your goals defined, know what you need to say and how. Is this a reaction to a controversy or a negative impact? A positive acclamation? Your goal defines your approach so make sure to outline your key points of your speech so that you won’t forget them.

You’ll have to take the best pick from locations such as Yarra valley corporate functions. It should be spacious enough to handle enough people and their camera equipment, but also have sufficient lighting to make for decent shots of the event. Don’t forget that it must have adequate parking for all the media crews and other important people- essentially, a well-rounded location.

Devise a list of media outlets and follow the proper protocol of inviting a group of people from each television station, magazine and newspaper outlet though a press release, personal e-mail or even a phone call. Getting a confirmation of the amount of people coming will also help you plan out your seating arrangements and spacing, amongst other things.

Refreshments are always a winner at functions- formal or not. Your list will also help you sort your quantities for refreshments. Its best that you have these ready at least 20 minutes before the press conference actually starts. Once started, there’ll be no time in the moment to consider it until it’s being served.

On the day of the press conference itself, you’ll definitely need to head to the venue a few hours earlier to see that everything is in perfect shape- all chairs are facing the main table, refreshments are in order etc. You’ll also have to assign someone to check credentials at the entrance, with a method of signing in. This could be via the traditional method of pen and paper or even electronic.

Afterwards, it’s all about establishing relationships. Get your hands on that signing sheet and contact anyone that you decide should get a further ‘thank you’ for attending the press conference. Add in that you are open for further questions and are able to send a copy of the press kit if necessary.

Remember to be in control of the situation and present an air of confidence. Represent yourself and your company/product/brand well by following this guide and you’re set on having a successful press conference.